Alumni Association History
On October 10, 1963, Marshall Minnesota was chosen as the site for a new college, following a selection committee's visit to every community in a 19-county area. A great celebration took place in Marshall.
Naming the College
It is interesting to note how and when the names Southwest State came about. Most of the Marshall community and the members of the college committee planned to have it be known as Marshall State College, similar to that of Winona state College, Mankato State College, and others as they were known at the time.
However, in September of 1964, Governor Karl Rolvaag visited Marshall and welcomed the community into the state university system. In preparing the governor's speech, educational consultant and speech writer Sally Luther inserted the name Southwest Minnesota State College From that point on it has been known as Southwest, with various name changes over the years.
The Charter Class
On September 18, 1967 Southwest Minnesota State College opened its doors. The initial enrollment numbers totalled 509 students, entering as the charter class, along with 44 faculty members and 52 staff personnel.
Make your Mark
We invite you to get involved in the Alumni Association and become part of the great history of SMSU. Register online and join in on events on-campus and off, and support the University through your time ,energy, and donations.